Special Interest: Quantitative

Subject

Grade Level

Discharge and Sediment Transport in the FieldJeff Clark, Lawrence University In this quantitative field activity, students collect field data on channel geometry, flow velocity, and bed materials. Using these data, they apply flow resistance equations and sediment transport relations to estimate the bankfull discharge and to determine if the flow is sufficient to mobilize the bed.

Water Quality AcquisitionMing-Kuo Lee Students practice their field water sample collection and water quality assessment skills and study acid mine drainage.

Prework for Rivers and Streams Lab (Intro Geology)Rachel Teasdale, California State University-Chico In order to give Introductory Geology (Physical Geology) undergraduate non-majors students experience and confidence in using basic algebra to calculate very simple stream flow properties, we use a prework assignment prior to the Rivers and Streams Lab. Prework is a worksheet assigned 2 weeks in advance, which asks students to calculate velocity and discharge as well as unit conversions and calculations of stream load. The questions are put into the context of activities they completed earlier in the semester during visits to the stream (on campus) so questions are relevant to their previous experiences. The prework timeframe gives students the opportunity to seek extra help from their instructor prior to the lab period in which they will make additional measurements, similar calcualations and interpretations of their data.